2015 Ford Transit-150
The 2015 Ford Transit-150 is a full-size van known for its versatility and cargo capacity. Engine options for this model year include a 3.7L V6 (275 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque), a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque), and a 3.2L Power Stroke diesel I5 (185 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque). All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (6R80). Owners often praise the Transit-150 for its spacious interior, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency compared to older van models. However, some common complaints include reliability issues, especially with certain engine components and electronics, as well as concerns about ride quality.
Engine
3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light. This can be caused by oil leaks or failed seals.
- Solution: Replacing the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Purge Valve Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, difficulty starting the vehicle, rough idling.
- Solution: Replacing the purge valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
3.7L V6
- Water Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, engine knocking.
- Solution: Replacing the water pump.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.2L Power Stroke Diesel I5
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, frequent regeneration cycles, check engine light. May be related to issues with the DEF system
- Solution: Replacing the DPF, cleaning the DPF (if appropriate), or addressing related issues in the DEF system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- EGR Valve Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust.
- Solution: Replacing the EGR valve.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6R80 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears, transmission slipping, or difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Software update/reprogramming the TCM (Transmission Control Module), replacing valve body, or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (reprogram), $800 - $1500 (valve body), $3000 - $5000+ (rebuild/replace)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at certain speeds, stalling, or abnormal noises.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than the front, poor ride quality, reduced load capacity.
- Solution: Replacing the rear leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when going over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacing worn ball joints/tie rod ends.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Door Lock Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking properly, erratic door lock behavior.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
- Recalls: None Found
- Backup Camera Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Backup camera not displaying image, distorted image, or intermittent functionality.
- Solution: Replacing the camera or repairing wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sliding Door Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening/closing the sliding door, binding, or motor failure (if equipped with power sliding door).
- Solution: Adjusting the door, lubricating the tracks/rollers, or replacing the motor/mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity and whether power-operated)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: No air coming from the vents, weak airflow, unusual noises from the blower motor.
- Solution: Replacing the blower motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2015 Ford Transit-150, while appreciated for its utility, can suffer from a variety of issues. Engine problems, particularly with the EcoBoost turbochargers and the diesel particulate filter on the Power Stroke models, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, though not always severe, can lead to expensive rebuilds. Suspension and electrical problems are relatively common and can add to the overall cost of ownership. While some repairs are inexpensive, others can be significant, making it important to carefully inspect a used Transit-150 and check its maintenance history before purchasing.